This unit of study will introduce students to the micro-organisms that cause human disease and the host's immune response associated with micro-organism infection. The nature and classification of micro-organisms including bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa and helminths will be covered. The growth requirements of micro-organisms, microbial genetics and host-microbe interaction are discussed within the context of infection control. The source and mode of transfer of infectious agents and their health threats are highlighted. Principles of safe clinical practice, antibiotics, epidemiology, and analytical methods are also covered. The application of microbiology in medicine, industry and biological products are emphasized. The basic concepts of immunology and how the individual components of the immune system work together to fight microbial infections will also be introduced.
Prerequisites
RBM1528 - Human Physiology 2 or
RBF1310 - Biology 1
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Learning Outcomes
| 1. | Identify and describe the differences of main groups of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa and helminths; | ||
| 2. | Describe the microflora associated with the human body and in various environments; | ||
| 3. | Critically review the transmission and infection control of microorganisms; | ||
| 4. | Evaluate fundamental knowledge of microbial genetics; | ||
| 5. | Examine innate and adaptive immunity to pathogens and the fundamentals of the immune response; | ||
| 6. | Explain the host defence mechanisms associated with micro-organism infections; | ||
| 7. | Discuss the importance of microbiome, chemotherapeutic agents and epidemiology, and their relevance to a health practitioner. |
Assessment
| Assessment type | Description | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Test | Two (2) Topic Tests (25 minutes each) | 20% |
| Report | Two (2) Laboratory Reports (800 words each) | 35% |
| Exercise | Case Study (1200 words) | 45% |
Required reading
Microbiology: an Introduction 12th ed.
Tortora, G.J., Funke, B.R. & Case, C.L. (2015)
Redwood City, California
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